Bangkok Thailand

Chiang Mai

2006-09-12T03:15:00.000-07:00

Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.

For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.

The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity.

Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

The Past
Chiang Mai literally means new city and has retained the name despite having celebrated its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom on Thursday, 12th April 1296 during the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai the Great conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded.

From then, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also the centre of Buddhism in northern Thailand. King Meng Rai himself was very religious and founded many of the city's temples, which are still important today.

At the height of its power, the Lanna Kingdom extended its territory far into Burma and Laos, and southwards to Kamphaeng Phet a province above Sukhothai.

The Burmese conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1556 ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai that lasted over 250 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, Burmese architectural influences are visible in many temples. At the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great regrouped the Thais in the south and finally drove the Burmese out with the help of King Kawila of Lampang thereby regaining Thai independence from Burma. Chiang Mai was then governed by a succession of princes who ruled the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in 1939 that Chiang Mai finally came under the direct control of the central government in Bangkok the same time the country was renamed Thailand.

In the past, Chiang Mai was only accessible by river and elephants. More convenient access was achieved only when the railway line was completed in the late 1920's. Moreover, the first motor vehicle driven directly from Bangkok arrived in Chiang Mai in 1932. Such isolation was more favorable to Chiang Mai as it helped to nurture and preserve the unique Lanna culture.
When we look at Chiang Mai today, it is the economic, cultural and communications hub of northern Thailand complete with excellent infrastructure, good roads, by passes and road tunnels, and reliable communications infrastructure.

The Setting
Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.

Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.

Siam Niramit - the Enchanted Kingdom

2006-09-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

The lavishness, glamour and elegance embedded within Thai society for centuries is at last captured on stage in an equally grandiose extravaganza! To package together all the grandeur of historical and spiritual Siam in a 80-minute stage production seems a formidable task. Siam Niramit has accomplished this using the best possible method: classic Thai finesse.

Located in the Ratchadda Grand Theatre, which boasts one of the biggest stages in the world, the production makes full use of its enormous stage with spectacular sets and a long list of performers sporting over 500 elaborately designed costumes. On top of this, enhanced special effects with state-of-the-art technical expertise and equipment are used to produce a stimulating, very realistic and inspiring experience.

The first of three acts covers over seven centuries of diverse Siamese cultural heritage, from Chinese and Muslim traders in the South, Khmer in the Northeast, the Lanna Kingdom in the North, and the Ayuthayya Kingdom in central Siam. During the second act, the binding spiritual Law of Karma shared among all Thais is presented through aspects of merit making. The realms of Heaven, Hell, the mystical Himappan Forest, and the Pleasure Realm of Lord Indra are also covered. The third and final act underlines the benefits of making merit in this life, where year-round merit making and religious festivals are enjoyed in joyful celebration.

Cultural value is regarded as Siam Niramit's core; Thai history, art, culture, and tradition are brought together with modern technology (not burdened by it) to produce a new standard of cultural performance. The gaudiness of over-emphasis on technology is therefore avoided to bring about the true beauty and integrity of Thai culture. Restaurants offering local cuisine in a rustic Thai village at the 1.5-billion baht Siam Niramit complex can seat up to 800 guests, where local hard-to-find Thai cuisine can be enjoyed. An excellent option for couples, families or a group of friends on a night out, Siam Niramit provides one-of-a-kind magic not to be missed!

The Siam Niramit complex is located at 19 Tianruammit Road, Huay Kwang, Bangkok. For reservations, please call +66 (0)2 649 9222. Tickets are 1,500 baht and exclude dinner.

Siam Niramit - the Enchanted Kingdom

2006-09-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

Weekend Market (Chatuchak Market) Bangkok

2006-08-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

This market is one of the largest in the world with 9,000 - 15,000 traders and is a must for anyone who came to Bangkok to do some shopping. Chatuchak Market is enormous and can get between 200,000 - 300,000 visitors in a single weekend.

You will find anything and everything at this market including clothes, books, animals, plants, artifacts, wooden items, material, baskets, antiques, unusual items, silks, silver wear, jewellery, household items, souvenirs and much, much, much more!! When you are preparing to go to the market, make sure you take a bottle of water with you and make sure you drink it, as you will find that you will get dehydrated very quickly if you don’t.

Warning: If you are a strict supporter of animal rights or if you don’t like to see animals in poor conditions, it is recommended that you might want to avoid the animal section of the market. Nothing bad happens to the animals; however it might be disturbing to see the animals caged up and not in the best environments.

If it is raining and you are thinking of going to the market, think again unless you want to be walking in down the ailes in water up to your ankles. This is ok if you are wearing sandals and have any blisters or cuts covered up with waterproof plasters.

To get to the market, catch the Skytrain to the end terminal called Morchit which is exactly where the market is located. The market is located opposite the old northern bus terminal along Phahonyothin.

The market is open every weekend (Saturday & Sunday) from 7am to 6pm. It is strongly advised that you should get to the market at around 9am if not before as the market does get extremely hot and crowded later in the day. If you are attending the market in April & May, get there as early as you can otherwise it gets unbearably hot towards midday and you will wish you had never gone.

About Thailand

2006-08-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

About Thailand

Thailand is a huge tourist destination. As tourism plays one of the largest roles in the Thai economy, every effort has been made to make every guest to this country comfortable and safe. Do not take the following tips as warnings, only advice, remember being a knowledgeable traveler is a big step to a successful vacation.

CUSTOMS AND RULES
Thailand’s culture is vastly different to the west and it is much appreciated when foreigners respect both its laws and heritage. There are certain Do’s and Don’ts that should ALWAYS be adhered to and then there are other rules that, though generally frowned upon are at times accepted.
One of these ‘accepted’ rules is that topless-ness on the beaches is in fact banned by law. Though it is generally advised, especially in Muslim areas, to abstain from this practice, some beaches do turn a blind eye to it. Be prepared for onlookers.Other than that, rules that are custom to the Thai culture should always be followed. One of the foremost of these is NEVER SHOW ANGER OR RUDENESS in public. If you do, you will find that all it achieves is to be ignored completely. Thai people are extremely polite and rudeness is not tolerated in any form.

When visiting a Buddhist Monastery, please remember the grounds are holy so appropriate attire must be worn. Shirts with sleeves for women is recommended and it is preferred that women wear either a skirt or neat shorts (not high cut ones). For men a neat shirt and shorts will do fine. Women should be careful as no monk may come into physical contact with any women.
Two customs considered impolite are sitting with your feet pointing towards another person. Where possible tuck them out of the way. The other is touching another person’s head in public.
The road accident rate in Thailand is one of the highest to be found and despite motorbike rental being both cheap and readily available, it is not recommended that the visitor hire one. Helmets have to be worn by the drivers of any motorbikes within the country. A helmet for the pillion passenger is optional but again it is advised that if carrying a passenger, you ask for a second one.

MEDICAL TIPS
It is advisable when traveling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. This applies even more so when traveling to tropical areas. If there’s a Tropical Diseases hospital nearby, contact it before departure for Thailand. If not, then chat to your local doctor.
Some areas of Thailand do occasionally have malaria so it’s a good idea to check on this before you visit. Mosquitoes generally throughout Thailand can at times be bothersome so it is advised that you come prepared, especially if you go plan on going outside at night. Many western hospitals will advise taking precautionary medical measures against the possibility of contracting the disease but those that live in malaria infested areas, around the world, not just in Thailand, advise against this. The reason for this is that if you are on medication and still contract malaria, it is harder to detect than if you are on no medication at all. Some travelers prefer to carry the cure with them rather than taking preventative measures all the time. The choice therefore is yours entirely but do speak to your local doctor before visiting.
Dengue fever is another mosquito born illness that is prevalent in most parts of south-east Asia. Complications with the disease, which can lead to death, usually only occur on a second infection and although causing severe headaches and body pains and general weakness, there is no preventative medicine. The only way to avoid contracting the disease is to protect yourself against mosquito bites as bes.

Weather Overview

2006-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Bangkok and Central Thailand are well within tropical latitudes and experience alternating periods of a dry and wet monsoon climate. The south-west monsoon arrives between May and July and lasts into October. This is followed by a dry period from November to May, a period that begins with lower relative temperatures until mid- February (because of the influences of the north-east monsoon, which bypasses this part of Thailand, but results in cool breezes), followed by much higher relative temperatures from March to May. According to the official Thai agricultural calendar, the rains begin in July; however, the arrival of the monsoon can vary. Occasional rains in the dry season are known as 'mango showers'. In Bangkok it usually rains most during August and September, though it can flood in October since the ground has reached full saturation by then. If you are in Bangkok in early October, you may find yourself in hip-deep water in certain parts of the city.During the cool/dry season (November to February), night-time temperatures may dip as low as 12°C (54°F), with normal daytime temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). During the rainy months (June to October), the temperature averages 32°C (89°F) in the daytime, and 26°C (79°F) to 28°C (82°F) at night. Add four or five degrees to the latter temperatures for the hot season (March to May) average. As the city climate is very humid for most of the year, perceived temperatures are often higher than thermometer readings. During the hot season the humidity is compounded by air pollution - the high level of particulate keeps the moisture in the air from evaporating. The lowest humidity occurs between November and May, especially when the occasional upland breeze arrives from the Khorat Plateau to the northeast and pushes back the humid delta air.

Travel inside Bangkok

2006-08-13T06:48:00.001-07:00

Bangkok is one of Asia?s most cosmopolitan cities. Created as the Thai capital in 1782 by the first monarch of the present Chakri dynasty, Bangkok is a national treasure house and Thailand?s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centre.

Bangkok exceeds 1,500 square kilometres in area and is home to one-tenth of the country's population.

Major tourist attractions include glittering Buddhist temples, palaces, timeless "Venice of the East" canal and river scenes, classical dance extravaganzas, and numerous shopping centres.

TRANSPORTATION

Buses
A regular bus service is provided by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) and its contracted operators throughout Bangkok as well as to its outskirts during 4 a.m. - 11 p.m. and around the clock on certain routes. Public buses are plentiful and cheap, with a minimum fare of 4 baht to most destinations within metropolitan Bangkok. Air-conditioned buses have minimum and maximum fares of 8 and 20 baht, respectively. Air-conditioned micro-buses charge a flat fare of 20 baht all routes. A Bus Route Map is available at bookshops. For more information, please call 184.

Taxis
Taxis cruising city streets are metred. They charge a minimum of 35 baht for the first 3 kilometres, and approximately 5 baht per kilometre thereafter. Make sure you have change, as taxi drivers often don?t! Passengers must pay tolls in the case of using an expressway.

Tuk-Tuks
These three-wheeled ?open-air? motorised taxis are popular for short journeys. Fares must be bargained in advance. Minimum fares, for journeys of up to 3 kilometres, are approximately 30 baht.

BTS Sky Trains
BTS sky trains ply along Sukhumvit, Silom and Phahonyothin roads. The routes connect Bangkok?s leading hotels and major shopping areas such as Siam Square, Silom, Ratchaprasong and Chatuchak Weekend Market. The fare ranges from 10-40 baht according to the distance. For more information, contact the Bangkok Mass Transit System at Tel: 0 2617 7340, 0 2617 6000 or visit www.bts.co.th

Bangkok Metro
A metro service is now available from Bang Sue via Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Ratchadaphisek Road, Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, Lumphini Park, Silom, Sam Yan to its terminal at Hua Lamphong Railway Station. The fare ranges from 14-36 baht according to the distance. Call 0 2624 5200 or visit www.bangkokmetro.co.th for further information.

River Taxis
Taxis that are even more unusual, though equally convenient, are the river taxis that ply the Chao Phraya River. Some are just cross river ferries, but others serve the many landing stages on both banks and cover a route that goes up as far as the northern suburb of Nonthaburi.

Shopping Areas and Markets in Bangkok

2006-08-13T06:48:00.000-07:00

Shoping Areas and Markets
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two major streets. There are many areas throughout Bangkok affording ample choices and easy access. The following is just a selection of som e of the principal shopping areas.

Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely Central, Sogo, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Amarin Plaza, Peninsula Plaza, all of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, the World Trade Centre and Narayana Phand Pavilion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Phloenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square - Mah Boon Krong (MBK), Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi.

Silom-Surawong-Patpong Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkoks commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong Road, while Patpong runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers and several shopping plazas. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpongs famous night market.

Silom-Mahesak-Charoenkrung Road Silom leads into Charoenkrung Road which parallels the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak Road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex.

Sukhumvit, like Silom, is one of Bangkoks main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekkamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and soi 21 (Asok) and along shortcuts between Asok and Ekkamai.

Pratunam-Phetchaburi A highlight in the district is Pratunam market, one of Bangkoks biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing.

Baiyoke Tower Located next to Bangkoks tallest hotel building, Baiyoke tower is one of the citys renowned garment centres.

Nai Lert Plaza Situated close to Pratunam Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts.

Bang Lamphu Situated close to the Grand Palace, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy.

Chinatown Centre on Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkoks Chinatown offers a profusion of gold shops as well as several nearby traditional shopping places such as Ban Mo Jewellery Street, Phahurat Cloth Market and the Old Siam Plaza.

Bo-be Market Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the citys renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail.

Jatujak or Chatuchak Weekend Market Located adjacent to Chatuchak Park, the weekend market, open on Saturday and Sunday, is a Bangkok landmark where you can buy just about everything from clothing to potted plants and everything in between a paradise for browsers and bargain-hunters alike. The market also offers items of furniture and home decor. It is also where professional and amateur art-lovers and artists meet.

Pak Khlong Talat This is a wholesale market for all kinds of cut flowers and vegetables. It is located on Maharat Road near the Memorial Bridge. The market is crowded in the early morning and in the evening.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market This popular attraction is some 80 kilometres west of Bangkok, accessible by regular bus from the Southern Bus Terminal. Everyday, hundreds of vendor boats crowd the market area in the early morning till noon.

Bangkok

2006-08-13T06:42:00.001-07:00

Bangkok

2006-08-13T06:42:00.000-07:00

Bangkok Floating Market

2006-08-13T02:53:00.000-07:00

Bangkok Floating Market

Well on the tourist trail after the Bond films, the trip to the famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak is still worth doing. Totally chaotic, small "klongs" or canals are filled with small flat boats jockeying for position, expertly paddled by mature ladies ready to stop and bargain at a moment's notice. It's colourful, noisy totally touristy but great fun.

Transactions are more concerned with tourists rather than locals these days but the boats are still piled high with with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat. Missed your breakfast or fancy an early lunch? Just call over a floating noodle seller for a bowl of steaming soup heated by a stove improbably and precariously balanced in the stern of the boat - complete with condiments of course!

While it's possible to catch a bus out of Bangkok and find your own way to the market, most people take an organized tour, ultimately saving on time and effort. If you want to go at your own pace, a private tour will provide a comfortable car for the one hour journey from Bangkok and your own personal boat, (ideal for taking pictures) There's a time window when the market opens from around 6:30am until 10:00am so the early birds will invariably catch the best photo shots. After 8:30am, it's mayhem!

A local boat ride along the canal which is both exhilarating and fascinating takes you to the market. The traditional long-tailed boat, powered by a huge diesel engine allows an interesting glimpse into local life. Orchards, traditional teak houses, floating water hyacinths - snapshots of local people by the river. A scene which suddenly changes as you arrive at the market with the shouts of the vendors replacing the roar of the engine. Despite the growing number of visitors, it's still a fun trip

MaeMai MuayThai

2006-08-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

MaeMai MuayThai
mean Muaythai techniques of using fists, feet, knees, and elbows efficiently in the attack and defense. The skills in Muaythai are acquired by practice and use of fists, feet, knees, and elbows harmoniously. The techniques used in teaching Muaythai vary from teacher to teacher, depending on the style each teacher can adapt. A style invented by a teacher will be given a name according to the action. When time goes by, the styles have considerably increased. They are therefore grouped and rhymed for the students to memorize. In the past, Muaythai boxers did not put on gloves. They fought with bare hands or hands wrapped with cotton yarn. The fighters could use their hands to throw, break or twist the opponents. They made use of a wide range of fighting techniques rather than strength. There emerged a lot of fighting styles accordingly. Later, the boxers are required to put on gloves like the international-style fighters and numerous rules and regulations have been issued to protect the fighters from any dangers and to facilitate the scoring system. Certain fighting styles are banned in the competition because they are regarded as a foul whereas boxers are unable to use certain skillful styles due to the guards or protectors put on their bodies. These styles were finally forgotten.
Muaythai techniques are grouped differently according to the teachers. In many Muaythai manuals, the techniques are obviously classified according to the features. The attack and counterattack is called Khon Muay or Muaythai strategy. The use of fists, feet, knees, and elbows is called Cherng Muay, Mae Mai and Look Mai, Mai Khru and Mai Kred, or simply Muaythai maneuvers. Mai Khru is the main technique that all students must learn. When it is acquired, it can be split into numerous Mai Kred or techniques

Mae Mai
Mae Mai Muay Thai means the major fighting styles regarded as basic maneuvers in Muaythai fighting. The students have to learn and put them into practice before other trivial techniques or Look Mai will be taught. Mai Muay Thai is divided into 15 styles as follows

1. Salab Fan Pla (Cross-switch movement)
2. Paksa Waeg Rang (Bird peeping through the nest movement)
3. Chawa Sad Hok (Java throws spear movement)
4. Inao Thaenk Krit
5. Yoh Khao Phra Sumain
6. Ta Taen Kham Fak
7. Maun Yan Lak
8. Pak Look Thoy
9. Jorake Phad Hang
10. Hak Nguang Aiyara
11. Naka Bid Hang
12. Wiroon Hok Klab
13. Dab Chawala
14. Khun Yak Jab Ling
15. Hak Kho Erawan (To break the elephant's neck movement)

Thai Hestory

2006-08-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

HISTORY Prehistory

That we today call Thailand origins from smaller countries. The earleast country from 200 BC was Suvarabhumi who laid in central Thailand and which was shaped by people of Indian origin. This was realsesed in 6 th to 11 th century by Dvaraavati and the Monpeople who had origins in todays west Thailand. Dvaraavati wa also an coalition by kingdoms in Burma.

Almost at the same time at year 600 to 1200 flourished in the southern a mighty kingdmon on Sumatra in Indonesia called Srivijaya which also dominated Malacka Pensylvania and southern Thailand.

East of Thailand in Kampuchea there was since year 800 the Khmers kingdom with the capital Angkor. From year 1000 they occupied the central and north Thailand and set up an occupationheadquarter in Lopburi 10 miles north of todays Bangkok.

The first thaipeople had with great probability their origin from southern China and the following centuries they searched to the south in bigger scales. >From the 10 th centuries they established several small countries in the north with the state Chiengaein far in the north with the Mekong-river as the most importance. Probably have a mass emigration been in the mid of 12-th when the Mongols under Kublai Khan expanded his empire to southern China and drifted the thaipeople south against Thailand.

A very important date in thai history is year 1238 when the two thaichiefs Bang Klan Tao and Pa Muan managed to join their forces and conquer the oppression Khemers in Lopburi. They founded the Sukhothai kingdom, and 1238 is seen as the birth of Thailand. The other small countries adhered after som time to Sukhotai and the Khmers was forced more and more to the east.

Up in the nortwest Thailand had some small countries with the Monpeople as leding managed to build an own kingdom Lanna . They begin to build their capital Chiang Mai year 1281. This kingdom was a long time independ to the rest of Thailand but came later under dependent from Burma. It was as late as 17-th centuries that Lanna came to belong to Thailand.

Sukhothai
The first king who was crowned in Sukhotai was thaichief Bang Klan Tao who took the name Intharathit. With growing military power he expanished the area of the new nation.

His youngest son Ramkamheng who became the third king is the one who got most importance for the develoment of Thailand, and whith great reverence is called the father of the nation. He had great political and diplomatic success and under his ruling the country was administrated by a peaceful feodal system instead by military power.

Ramkamhaeng also slot agreement with Lanna in the north and China which also made temperateness on the revenged Khmers in the east. The king also made tradeagreements with Burma, India, Sri Lanka.

From Sukhothai and king Ramkamhaeng the country became to get its present embrace. Ramakamheng also introduced Theravada-buddism as state religion, and devised the first thai written alpabeth. He also laid the basic for the thais freedom and citizens wrights.

Ayuttahya
Sukothai kingdom became unfortunately not long because king Ramkamhaengs followers on the throne didn´t get the same power as theirs predecessor and the state was shrinking more and more. In the south in the fertility valley of Chao Phraya-river a new great power was growing which was founded by king Ramathibodi in year 1350.

The kingdom was called Ayuttaya as their name of the capaital. After some time Sukhothai came under the new kingdom. From east the khmers did repetead attacking against Ayuttaya. As an answer his son Rasusuan take over Angchor twenty years later in year 1431. After that the khemrs moved their capital to east to Phon Penh by the Mekong river.

Ayutthaya became the capital in a glorious empire under many decades with autocrats kings.The capital became a big and important city with international connections. The portuguise was invited as the first european country and they begin with trade in 1500. At the same time the name for the country Siam was taken.

After the dead of king Ramathibodis II:s year 1529 a period of week kings, complots and scandals followed. This used the king of Burma to attack Ayutthaya several times ehich later was conquerd in year 1569 and Ayutthaya became a sattelite state to Burma. After fifteen years managed the sixteen year old prins Naresuan to take back his land. He had several years before been taking to the court of Burma and there been educated as a warrior. But he returned back to Ayutthaya and shaped an own army and after that he liberated his land. When Naresuan died in year 1605 Ayuttaya was on the top of their power and he leaved a kingdom that no enemy dared to atack for over 150 years.

In the mid and rest of 17 th centuruy Ayuttaya was a really cosmopolitic city. Historinas claims that the city was the biggest city in the world with over one miljon inhabitans, much bigger than Paris or London. Europeans likened Ayuttaya to Venice in Italy and called Ayuttaya the most beautiful city in the East. Under this period trading agreements had been made with Spain, Holland, England, Japan, Denmark and France. The trading was not made by the thais themselves, instead the buisines was lent over to indians and chines who have imigrated to the kingdom.

In the mid 18 th century the country once again got week kings and the power of Ayutayas was declining. The main enemy Burma had instead grown in power and was waiting for revenge. After 14 months of besiege Ayuttaya was falling year 1767 in the hands of Burma. Ayutthaya was burned down and destroyed. Thousands of people was killed or moved away as slaves. Only 10.000 people was left in the city after the catastrophe.
Thonburi period

One of the generals a halfchinese with the name of Taksin did managed to flee with 500 soldiers from Ayuttaya before it was taking. He moved to Rayong and shaped as the time went on a greater army in the area that wasn´t controlling by the Burmese. After some time his army took over one places after another from the Burmeses. Then they sailed upwards Chao Pharya and within a year Ayuttaya was liberated. In competition with earlier prince´s Taksin was elected as the new king. Because it was not possibly and suitable to rebuild Ayuttaya he instead choosed to build a new capital at the end of Chao Phraya river in the Siam bay. As time went on king Taskin get control of the rest of the kingdom after repetingly fighting with Burma.

Chakridynasty
The king began as the time went on to become more and more paranoid. He therefor was prisoned and later executed. Instead did one of his generals Chao Phya Chakri take over the throne in year 1782 and he proclaimed himself as Rama I. He shaped then the dynasty who rules Thailand also in present time.

But still the treat from Burma was a reality. The king then determined because of strategical reasons to move the city to the other side of the river so it could be more protected from attacks from the west. The place was in that time a little tradeplace as the foregineers called Bangkok, while the thaipeople called it Krungthep "the Angels city"
Bankok was building with Ayuttaya as model, to recieve the glory of Ayuttaya as faithfully as possibly. Carpenters and artists who had survived Ayuttaya was taken to Bangkok to build the new capital. A lot of copys of tempel from Ayuttaya were made, andt even a copy of the royal palace was rebuilt in the new capital. After a decade of rebuilding the country and endless fighting with Burma , the europeans could once again visting the country.

With the two kings Rama II and III, Bangkok expanded to a new great city with many inhabitans and did once again became one of the most glorified capitals in the Orient. Under this time the agricultural production was developed, and at the same time the trade was developed with China.

When contacts was expanded with the Western Countries king Mongut became Rama IV 1851. He had a long time earlier been at monk and he had also read natural science and could read many language. He had also been travelling and had close relationsship with his inhabitans. Therefor he begin by legislation improve the social situations for childs and womans. King Mungot also modernisized thervada-buddismen.

Rama biggest IV:s contribution was his clear and diplomatic realations. At this time both England and France was expanding their colonies in Asia. When China was defeated in the opiumwar against England, Mungot understood he had not much to stand up agains this superpowers. With skilled diplomacy he managed to balance the superpowers with longoing trade agreements, and at the same time a less territory in the west of Burma was lost to England. In the future both England and France promised Siam selfindependence.

His son Chulalongkorn Rama the V became king 1868 and he continued in his fathers footprints. Under his period the country was modernirised. Siam selfindependence was unforunately not respected and the country was shrinking, when territory in southern present Malysia was incoperated to England 1909 and France took over present Laos 1893 and Kampuchea 1907. But Chulalongkorn did managed the both superpowers to understand the advantage with having Siam as a selfindependence buffertzone against the two superpowers. Siam had the lucky to continue to be the only selfindependence kingdom in the region.

With help from european technicians and administrators Siam were buildning roads, railways, post and telegraph. The king himself was travel a lot in Europe. He was also sending houndreds of students to go to university in Europe. He was also preparing for a more democrat system, when he managed a system for provinces and municipality and also a ministary with employees paid by the state as european pattern. Rama V also organized hospitals, and schools run by the state. He also year 1905 forbid all forms of slavery.

A couple of decennium later had several coups been prevented when strong forces was in the move to abuse the monarchy. Finally some radical students who had been studying in Paris, had been succeding to infiltrade officers and made an unbloody coup 1932 when the king Prajadhipok, Rama VII was on a holiday in Hua Hin. The king approved after that a new constitution with two chambers and the country became a constitutional monarchy similar to the system in England.

The coupmakers had formed a partythey called The Peoples Party who formed the government. Through many years forward there was many internal struggle of the power who led to unbloody coups with different leaders, and at the same time the corruption spread around which angered the ordinary people. In year1935 the king abdikated and moved to England. Instead his nephew Mahidol should be the new king. He was living and was also educated in Schwitzerland, but he was just ten years old and should not become of age until year 1946. Under the meantime a special government of advice should represent him in the homeland..

WAR WORLD II

Just before war world II took one of the leaders from the coup 1932 over power. It was Phibul Songkhram and he was from 1938 prime minister but in reality he was a dictator. When the japanese in 1941 was approching Bangkok did Siam gave up without resistance, and Songkhram who admired Hitler choose to stay on their side.

The Japanese could therefor use Siam for their continuing plans of counqering westwards against Burma and Indien. From Singapore and Indonesien thousands of allied prisoners was taken to build a new railway against the border of Burma which the japanese should use later when attacking Burma.

When the war har turned unlycky for Japan Siam moved over to Amerikas side on the war and a civil government took over power with Pridi Phanomyong as prime minister. He had earlier been on the resistencemovement in the war against the japanese. At this time Siam had changed name from Siam to Thailand.

King Ananda did a couple of years later return to Thailand after studies in europe. In the same year 1946 he died in mysterious circumstances when he was found shoot in his bed. Instead did his younger brother Bhumibol Adulyadej took over the throne, and he is still today the king of Thailand.

The officiel explanation to the death of king Anandas was that he had been playing with a gun att by misstake the gun had gone off and he had shoot himself. Another theory was that the prime minister Pridi had been interfered in the kings dead. This was used by the former prime minister Phibul to once again make a coup in 1948 to take back the power. He did also take away the democratic efforts which had been made before and after the war. After he came to power the constitution was sharpening and the country almost went to be a policestate with hard cencor. Phibul did also a very much USA-friendly politic and even thai-military took part in the Korea-war. Later at Vietnam-war Thailand was a important basic territory for the amerikans war-maschine, and at the most there was 50.000 amerikan soldiers in the country.

THE WAY AGAINST DEMOCRACY

In the beginning of 1970 the political oposition in Thailand was growing, among students from Bangkok who did claims on economic reforms and democracy. From provinces in both north and the south communistic guerillamovement was growing which was inspiered from the neighbouring countries and from China.

A new proposal for a new consitution that should have sharped the militarys power even more, turned out to great studentdemonstrations, who also demonstrated against USA:s influence in the country.

Demonstrations was kept for several months and ended with ”The bloody sunday” (14 oktober 1973) when thousands of people was marching through the capital wearing pictures of the king and the queen and claimed a democratic constitution. They were then stopped by soldiers, tanks, helicopters and hundreds of people were shoot dead. The following resultate was that the military government fleed the country.

The king then appointed a civil government and the first free elections in 30 years was held. Unfortunately the selected representetives was missing routine and they were split 21 partys. Therefor there was no strong governmentsbuildning. Although the political freedom did make the possibility to build unions and people began to organize, demand reforms, but also strikes became common.

In 1976 the military took over again and with a bloody coolision the students resistance was smashed. The constitution from 1973 was annulled, partys was forbidden and radical litterature was set over fire. Thousands of lefwings sympathys was arrested, many fled pr just disappear. The coups could be done beacuse of the conservatives who had military, police and USA with CIA as support.

After the communists victorys in Vietnam 1975 and also in Laos and Kampuchea, Thailand moved into a new situation and the american troops left the country. The government in Bangkok tried to adapt there policies to their neighbour countries.

Some years later in 1979 the situation was changed again when Vietnam conquered Kampuchea. Against the Vietnames a resistance-movement was fighting and they had their bases along the border to Thailand and even inside Thailand. The reistansce-movement was attacking by vietnameese troops and therefor Thailand was forced to strengthen its defence. From USA they once get weapons and advantageous economic conditions, and at the same time get US as an ally.

At the same time China and Vietnam was enemys and therefor Thailand also got some cooperation from China.

Refugees from Kampuchea and Laos had seen 1970 moved inte refugee-camps in Thailand. In year 1986 there was 250.000 refugees and the most of them were from Kampuchea. It was in this camps the resistence-movement got their geurillasoldiers from, and therefore the camps was attacking by vietnameese trops, and often there was hard struggle between thai and Vietnameese soldiers.

From 1980 the government in Thailand got more stability then ever before. For eight years the former general Prem Tinsulanonda was prime minister. His government contained four parties and had good contacts with the military and also with the king. Prem himself didn´t belong to any party but he had strong prestige because he had been armychief and had been fighting agains communist-guerilla in 1970. But two coops against him did happen before he droped of because of high age.

NEW CONSTITUTION 1978

According to the constitution from 1978 Thailand has a parlamentary government with a constitutional monarchy at the throne. Formally the king is the head of the state, but he has only symbolic and ceremonious tasks. the kingdom is also heriditary and if there are no prince, the princess take over the throne.

The king also appoints the prime minister, who ares leading the government and who are responsibly to the national asembly. It´s not neccesary that the prime minister is from the national assembly or even are a politican. There has almost been a high military on the post as prime minister. That did happen in the election 1988 when general Chatichai Choonhavan was prime minister from the party Chart Thai who got most of the votes in that election and formed a coalition government..

In the constitution from 1978 the National assembly (or the parlament) consist of two chambers, the senates and the house of representatives. The 244 senatores was elected by the king after proposals from the prime minister, and they sat for six years. In the house of representativs there was 357 members who was elected i public elections and sat for four years.

Thailand is also divided into 72 provinces and is administered by a governor appointed by the ministry of Interior. The provinces are then sub-divided into districts and sub-districts.

In the first election according to the new constitution the participation raidsed from 44 percent 1979 to 61 percent in 1986.

A stabilizing factor in thai community is the monarchy. The king has no direct power, but he has big influence because almost a "divine role" and he has several times discreet intervened to awoid greater conflicts.

But Thailand had still a long way to go in spite of the democratic front with political partys, general elections and free press is Thailand still a feodal community because the power more follows personal groups than political ideologies.

DEVELOPMENT SINCE 1992

In 1991 there was once again an unbloody coup when Choonhavans ineffective and corrupt regim was overtrowned by general Suchinda Kraprayoon. In may 1992 there was a new election and the coup-general was elected as prime minister. But the accusation of cheating turned into street disturbance. Together with 60.000 students it turned out to great demonstrations in may 17 for turning Krapayoon to leave his post. In Bangkok there was violent disturbance and at the same time groups of terrorist and communists saw the opertunity to rubber banks, shops and to set fire at several buildnings and a even a policestation in the capital.

The police were then forced to get help from the military to get an end to the violent disturbance. In 19 of may, 41 persons get killed and almost 700 get hurt and was driven to hospital, and at the same time many got arrested.

The demonstration leader Jumlong Simung who was mayor in Bangkok had been house-arrested and was the 22 of may together with the prime minister invitated to the king to discuss the situation. The following days the prime minister left the government and the decission was that a new election would be held in 90 days.

In the new election in september the Demcratic party and their leader the layer Chuan Leekpai won. The party got strong forwards and got 79 places. Together with four smaller parties they together got 193 vots majority in the house of representatives. Leekpai was the countrys first civil prime minister since many years.

Leekpai did managed to keep the power for three years before his coalation-government fell after been accused of corruption. After that Banhard Silpa-Archa take over who led the Chart Thai-party, but also this government fell after a year, also accused of corruption 1996. The next government was led by general Cavalit Youngchaiyudh from Nationella aspirationsparty (NAP) which the following year lost the power because of the economic crise which strike the country. After that the former prime minister Leekai took over and led a fiveparty coalition to year 2000.

In spite of many relapse in unbloody coups, the way to Western democracy has gone forward since 1970. The way forward have been edged by corruption, cheating in the elections and military power. Although the thai politicians are aware of the bad circle of bying votes and corruption at the highest level.

In 1998 the constitution was changed to strengthen the democracy. For example are the senate not selected by the king from a proposal from the prime minister. Instead they are elected in general elections. At the same time the member of house of representatives raised from 357 to 393.

In the latest election to the parlament in february 2001 was Thaksin Shinawatra elected as prime minister. He had been the leader of Thai Rak Thai Party since 1998.

FOREIGN POLITIC

Thailands foreign politic have always been to quickly adapt the new situations. In ASEAN (Association of South East Asians Nations) which was founded in 1967 the purpose was to be an economic organizations such as European Union (EU) in Europe. But the economic cooperation had been almost zero.

After the war in Korea the anticommunist defendalliance SEATO (Southest Asia Treaty Organization) was founded. The alliance made a front against the communist states in Indochina which became specially important after Vietnams invasion of Kampuchea in 1979. The red khmers was then forced against and over the thai border. Thailand then been forced to strengthen its defence because vietnamees troops attacked the khmers camps inside the thai border.

Then chinese weapon and other support from ASEAN-lcountries was sent through Thailand to the antivietnameese guerillagroups against the border since they lost all their bases inside Kampuchea, when they was forced away by the vietnameese.

Since the vietnameese had drawn back their forces and Kampuchea was going against democracy Thailand prime minister Chatichai in 1988 changed the strategy to instead transform the battlefield to a marketplace with extended business against the indochina countries. This policy became popular among thai businessmen who travels a lot to Vietnam, Laos and Kampuchea.

The Art of MuayThai

2006-08-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

The Art of Muay Thai

Muay Thai isn't just punches and kicks, it goes beyond the physical aspect of the sport. What sets Muay Thai apart from other martial arts lies in its profound connection with spirituality and reverence, which are expressed through ritual ceremonies before and after each fight. You will notice that each boxer wears 'Mong Kon' (a sacred headband) and 'Pra Jiad' (sacred armband). The headband is believed to bestow luck to the wearer since it has been blessed by a monk or the boxer's teacher.

More than punches and kicks

Since Buddhism and the teacher play important roles in the life of Thai kick boxers, the headband is both a lucky charm and a spiritual object. It will be removed after the 'Wai Khru', and only by the boxer's trainer. An armband is believed to offer protection and only removed when the fight has ended. Before the match begins, both boxers perform 'Wai Khru' (paying respect to teachers), by first circling the ring three times and then kneeling and bowing three times to show gratitude to their teachers, masters and coaches, and at the same time pay respect to their parents, spirits, the King and country.

The next step is 'Ram Muay'. Boxers demonstrate their style and skills to the audience. 'Ram Muay' usually give clues about where each fighter comes from and who his teacher is. Besides the symbolic meaning of these rituals, they also serve as a good warm-up exercise. Another striking feature of this sport is the accompanying Thai wind-and-percussion ensemble, which guarantees to get every heart pounding all through the match. Finally, the hard-to-miss feature of Muay Thai is its exuberant audience. The loud cheer accompanying each blow and the spectators' myriad of emotions and gestures are fun and exciting to watch. Don't be afraid to join in the fun!

Know the rules

Although no previous knowledge of Muay Thai rules is required to enjoy the match, familiarising yourself with some of the basic rules will greatly enhance the experience. You'll be jumping, flinching, shouting and cheering along with the local crowds. The distinguished difference between Muay Thai and Western boxing is that Muay Thai allows kicking, kneeing and elbowing, in addition to punching. Points are scored for every blow landed on an opponent. Points are deducted when a contestant violates any of the rules.
Unlike Western boxing, blows below the belt are allowed, but the groin is not considered to be a valid target. Generally speaking, Muay Thai matches are more frantically paced than Western bouts, and thus are broken up into a maximum of five rounds of three minutes. Similar to Western bouts, Muay Thai matches can end with a winner by knockout, a technical knockout, winning by points, or a draw can be declared. Contestants must wear gloves weighing at least 6 ounces, and must weigh in and be examined by a physician before each match. The contestants wear only boxing trunks into the ring, and may not wear shoes or headgear.

The Emerald Buddha

2006-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Kaeo (The Emerald Buddha)
One of Thailand's most revered temples, Wat Phra Kaeo is located inside the grounds of the Grand Palace. This Royal temple contains an exquisite Emerald Buddha which dates back to around the 14th century.

No one is allowed near the Buddha which is raised high on a series of platforms, except H.M. the King. A seasonal cloak, changed three times a year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy season covers the statue. A very important ritual, the changing of the robes is performed only by the King to bring good fortune to the country during each season. The temple is beautifully decorated and has a great sense of peace about it.

Location: Na Phra Lan Road - Inside the Grand Palace complex.
Open: 08:30 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 15:30.

A Brief History of Muaythai

2006-08-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

A Brief History of Muaythai(Thai Boxing)
Almost as ancient as the country itself, the art of Thai boxing is deeply ingrained in the history of Thailand. It is believed that the forbears of the modern Thai migrated from the South of China. In the course of their exodus, they had to hide from aggressive attackers and met with resistance from local people. A great number of battles had been fought and countless lives had been lost. The wars were fought using ancient weapons like bows, arrows, knives and spears. However, during the close-contact combat these weapons became cumbersome and thus arms, legs, elbows and knees were used to fight instead. These bodily weapons must have worked, because Muay Thai was later adopted as a required part of military training and became one of the skills expected of a real (brave) man in those days.

How it all began....
During the Ayudhya Period (1365 - 1768), Thailand (then Siam) had to fight a series of gruelling battles against neighbouring Burma, Cambodia and Vietnam. King Naresuan, ruling the country at the time, was a trained boxer himself. When he was captured during one of the battles, the King was given a chance to fight with Burma's top fighters in exchange for freedom. He returned to Siam as a hero and, not too long after, 'Siamese-style' boxing was recognised as a national sport. Muay Thai was at its zenith of popularity during the time of Pra Chao Sua (the Tiger King), when it was widely practiced in all levels of society. The King was well-known for his deep passion for Muay Thai and said to have participated incognito in various village contests and won many titles.
When Ayudhya fell, many Thais became Prisoners of War. One of them was a fighter named Nai Khanomtom. He was captured and taken to Rangoon, where he was requested by the King of Burma to fight against the Burmese champion. Nai Khanomtom prepared himself for the fight by performing the ritual 'Wai Khru'. When the fight began, he charged out at his opponent and quickly defeated him. The people were convinced that the Burmese opponent was distracted by the 'Wai Khru' and this rendered the knockout void. The King then asked Nai Khanomtom to fight again to prove himself, this time against nine other Burmese champions. Nai Khanomtom beat them all in a row and was granted freedom to return to Siam, where he had been a boxing legend since.
Muay Thai was banned during the 1920's due to an alarming rate of injury. However, it was later reinstated (1937) with a new set of rules for protecting contestants. And at the time of the Revolutionary Period permanent boxing stadiums were set up around the country, but they ceased to exist when World War II broke out. However, when the war ended, boxing stadiums re-appeared. In 1945, Thai people saw the advent of Rajdamnern Stadium, Thailand's very first standard boxing stadium.
Today, Muay Thai is said to be one of the deadliest forms of martial arts in the world. Although the number of participants have decreased over the years, Muay Thai is still a popular spectator sport. Television networks broadcast fights five days a week, and match results are reported in all major newspapers. International boxing is also very popular, and the country has produced dozens of world champions, who all started out as Muay Thai fighters though. Recently, many Thai films have been made to celebrate the art of Muay Thai. 'Beautiful Boxer' tells the story of a fascinating transvestite boxer while 'Ong Bak' and 'Tom Yum Goong' feature Tony Jaa, Muay Thai sensation who has been hailed as the new Jackie Chan. These films seem to have revived Muay Thai's popularity in Thailand and spreading the art of Muay Thai all over the world.

The Temples

2006-08-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

The temples
The temple are an absolute must! Bangkok's dazzling temples are a unique part of the capital's heart and soul. A visit to Bangkok would not be complete without seeing at least two of them- the architecture is inspiring and the glittering decoration is quite stunning. Thousands of pieces of coloured glass and pottery adorn fantastic structures gilded in gold. Quite unlike anything else.

The best time to visit most temples is in the early morning. It's cooler, and generally less crowded. The temples (or 'Wats') are not just tourist attractions but also play an important part in Buddhist traditions. Monks live in the temple complexes, wake up around 04:00, attend to prayers and duties and then collect food and necessities from ordinary people on the streets. If you are up very early in Bangkok you will see monks walking around, dressed in saffron coloured robes. This daily alms ritual (called 'tam bun') takes place all over Thailand and is part of the Buddhist philosophy of giving and making merit to attain a better life beyond this one.

There are so many temples, all of them unique. It's daunting to visit all the temples, so we've listed in the following sections those in the 'must- visit' category, according to their beauty, cultural significance and high regard in Buddhism. Most temples are not open after 18:00.

Dress Code - Thai temples are sacred places so you must dress appropriately. No shorts or revealing tops, otherwise you simply won't be allowed in. This applies particularly to Wat Phra Kaeo (inside the Grand Palace.)

Bangkok Temples

2006-08-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Bangkok Temples & Traditions

The temples are an absolute must! Bangkok's dazzling temples are a unique part of the capital's heart and soul. A visit to Bangkok would not be complete without seeing at least two of them- the architecture is inspiring and the glittering decoration is quite stunning. Thousands of pieces of coloured glass and pottery adorn fantastic structures gilded in gold. Quite unlike anything else.

The best time to visit most temples is in the early morning. It's cooler, and generally less crowded. The temples (or 'Wats') are not just tourist attractions but also play an important part in Buddhist traditions. Monks live in the temple complexes, wake up around 04:00, attend to prayers and duties and then collect food and necessities from ordinary people on the streets. If you are up very early in Bangkok you will see monks walking around, dressed in saffron coloured robes. This daily alms ritual (called 'tam bun') takes place all over Thailand and is part of the Buddhist philosophy of giving and making merit to attain a better life beyond this one.

There are so many temples, all of them unique. It's daunting to visit all the temples, so we've listed in the following sections those in the 'must- visit' category, according to their beauty, cultural significance and high regard in Buddhism. Most temples are not open after 18:00.

Dress Code - Thai temples are sacred places so you must dress appropriately. No shorts or revealing tops, otherwise you simply won't be allowed in. This applies particularly to Wat Phra Kaeo (inside the Grand Palace.)

Welcome to Bangkok

2006-08-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Bangkok

Fascinating, vibrant, colourful, and at times even mind-boggling... Welcome to Bangkok, where gleaming skyscrapers grace the skyline alongside dazzling, historical temples. Where a wrinkly garland maker plies her trade outside a posh five-star mall. Past, present and future live harmoniously together. Indeed, Bangkok has it all; it’s a sensory thrill that never ceases to delight.
From floating markets and fruit carvings to robed monks and the infamous tuk-tuks, postcard images abound. But, to experience the true marvels of this city of contrast and diversity, take a deeper look – far beyond the visual images you are familiar with even before your plane touches down.

While you’re in Bangkok, make sure to make the most of the city's famous nightlife, experience the excitement of a Muay Thai boxing match, or the glitz and glam of a lady boy show. Perhaps an elegant dinner cruise on the Chao Praya River tickles your fancy? What about treating yourself to a legendary Thai massage and rejuvenating spa treatment, bound to elevate you to heavenly bliss?

This – and much, much more – is Bangkok. Explore. Experience. Discover its hidden secrets. Indulge. And enjoy your stay!